Islamabad (HRNW)– Following the joint session of Parliament, the National Assembly passed the Albiruni International University Islamabad Bill 2025 with a majority vote, while the amendments proposed by MNA Alia Kamran were rejected.
The post-joint session meeting, chaired by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, saw strong attendance from members despite a long day of proceedings. In a light-hearted tone, the Speaker remarked that the day had been lengthy and asked members to continue for a bit longer before dispersing. He also humorously urged the opposition to “keep a light hand” on the university bill.
During the sitting, MNA Abrar Ahmed presented a call-attention notice regarding the lack of treatment facilities for Islamabad residents at the Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology.
Responding to it, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry emphasized that healthcare is a fundamental right, adding that patient numbers in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are extremely high. He also mentioned that the Prime Minister had inaugurated a research institute where “90 million pounds of a famous case” would be utilized.
A supplementary agenda was also introduced, featuring the Prevention of Food Waste in the Regional Capital Islamabad Bill 2025 alongside the Albiruni University Bill.
Alia Kamran strongly opposed the university bill, arguing that such matters fall under provincial jurisdiction after the 18th Amendment and that Parliament was legislating for private companies.
In response, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq jokingly said, “You oppose every bill—never oppose your own bill.” His comment drew laughter across the House.
Her amendments were rejected by majority vote. Later, MNA Agha Rafiullah introduced an amendment requiring the university to allocate 25% quota for deserving students, which Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar supported. The House then passed the Albiruni International University Islamabad Bill 2025 with a majority.
The session was adjourned until 11 am on Friday.
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